By ARAB NEWS

RIYADH: Women will join Shoura Council in the next session, and they will also be allowed to contest and vote in the next municipal elections, Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah said while addressing Shoura Council on Sunday.

King Abdullah announced that women would be allowed membership in both the Saudi Shoura Council (the consultative assembly) and also to the municipal council in an address to the Shoura Council in Riyadh on Sunday.

“Because we refuse to marginalize women in society in all roles that comply with Shariah, we have decided, after deliberation with our senior ulema and others to involve women in the Shoura Council as members in line with the Shariah regulations, starting from the next term,” King Abdullah said.

“Secondly women have the right to run for municipal council membership. She also has the right to vote within Shariah regulations. Bothers and sisters, it is your right that we enable to achieve everything that guarantees your honor, dignity and interest. It is our right on you to have their guidance and advice in line with the Shariah regulations,” he added.

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